Staff at West Dunbartonshire Council are set to become experts in a new benefits scheme before it is introduced.

The local authority has been selected as one of just three councils in Scotland to lead a pilot project ahead of the launch of the UKGovernment’s new Universal Credit.

This will replace the likes of job seekersallowance, income-related employment and supportallowance, child tax credits and housing benefit from next year.

The council will then pass on theirexperiences to others across the UK.

Corporate servicesconvener, Councillor Kath Ryall, said: “These changes will affect some of the most disadvantaged members of our community, so it is vitally important theseindividuals receive the right support both during andafter the transition.

“Our selection as a pilot area is good news because it will ensure that we are ahead of the game when it comes to providing local people with help.”